The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), says the present misinformation over fifth-generation network technology (5G) may likely obstruct its implementation in the country.

Umar Danbatta (pictured), executive vice chairman (EVC) of NCC, said this at the opening of a two-day capacity building for members of the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA), on Tuesday in Abuja.

He lamented that majority of Nigerians had believed that the 5G technology was responsible for the COVID- 19 pandemic.

TheCable  fact check had confirmed that there is no known link between coronavirus and 5G technology.

The NCC head blamed media outlets for playing a part in peddling falsehoods and misinformation.

“The misinformation/misrepresentation of 5G technology has the potential of derailing the launch/implementation of this new technology in our clime,” he said.

“Many Nigerians including citizens in more civilised countries were hooked on the notion that the introduction of 5G technology was the reason behind the spread of the novel COVID-19 Pandemic.

“This misconception was even made worse because those saddled with the responsibility of informing, educating and enlightening the average Nigerian telecom consumers were also bereft of the knowledge of this new technology and hitched a ride on the band wagon of doubters.”

Danbatta added that the impact of the 5G network will be much greater than the 4G network.

He also said that 5G’s full economic effect will likely be realised across the globe by 2035, supporting a wide range of industries and potentially enabling up to $13.2 trillion worth of goods and services.

“5G, when fully deployed, will provide increased speed and bandwidth as well as provide deeper coverage to reach people in rural or challenging locations,” he said.

“In addition, 5G will provide strong security for the various sectors of government and private organisations.

“Due to its sheer scale and scope, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) predicts 5G will accelerate the achievements of all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) from affordable and clean energy to zero hunger.”

By Wasilat Azeez